Golf ball-sized hail struck Gillette, Wyoming on June 4, 2026, measuring 1.75 inches in diameter.
The hail strike occurred approximately 30 miles northeast of downtown Gillette.
Damage assessment
At 1.75 inches, this golf ball-sized hail likely caused functional damage to standard architectural asphalt shingles, the dominant roofing material in Gillette. Shingles over 10-15 years old face higher risk of granule loss, exposed mat, and potential leaks. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles would show better resistance but could still sustain damage at this size. Homeowners should expect visible impact marks and potential compromise to the roof's weather barrier.
With a typical deductible of $5,290 on Gillette's median home value, and repair costs averaging $5,062 for a 2,000 square foot roof, filing a claim may not provide significant financial benefit. The repair estimate falls just below the deductible threshold, meaning most homeowners would pay out-of-pocket costs. However, homeowners should check their policy declarations page for their specific filing deadline, as requirements vary by insurer.
Insurance policy claim deadlines are not available in this case — homeowners should check their policy declarations page for specific filing requirements.
Repair costs fall below your deductible — you will likely pay out of pocket regardless of filing. Focus on getting competitive estimates from licensed contractors rather than rushing a claim.
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Gillette inspection
Gillette repair cost reference
Historical context
This event ranks #29 out of 112 documented hail events over 1 inch in the past decade for this area. The largest recorded event was 3 inches on July 17, 2023. June historically sees above-average hail activity with 38 events in 10 years, though July remains the peak month with 73 events.
Storm system
The Gillette storm was part of a broader weather system that also produced 2-inch hail in Pennington County, South Dakota the same day, indicating an active supercell complex across the northern Great Plains.
Contractor guidance
Current contractor backlogs are 1-2 weeks with moderate storm chaser risk following regional hail events. Wyoming does not require state-level roofing contractor licenses, though local requirements may vary. Homeowners should verify general contractor licensing, worker's compensation insurance, liability insurance, and industry certifications. Be cautious of contractors offering to waive deductibles, as such offers may implicate insurance fraud under Wyo. Stat. § 27-29-101 et seq.
Permits & building code
At 1.75 inches, repairs are more likely than full replacement for most roofs. Contractors must pull permits costing $150-$350, and inspections are required. While Class 4 shingles aren't mandated, they offer 10-30% insurance discounts and better hail resistance for future storms.
- 1Document all visible roof damage with photos from ground level
- 2Contact insurance company to report potential claim and verify filing deadline
- 3Get multiple estimates from licensed contractors with proper insurance
- 4Verify contractor credentials including worker's compensation and liability coverage
- 5Consider Class 4 impact-resistant shingles for replacement to reduce future hail damage risk
This storm may have damaged your roof — get a free Gillette inspection
Event confirmed by NOAA NEXRAD radar through the Severe Weather Data Inventory, with full National Weather Service documentation pending.